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Second Best Friend
Jade and Becky are best friends, but when Jade’s ex-boyfriend lets on that everyone thinks Becky is the better of the two, Jade finds herself noticing just how often she comes second to her best friend. There’s nothing Jade is better at than Becky.
So when Jade is voted in as Party Leader ahead of her school’s General Election only to find herself standing against Becky, Jade sees it as a chance to prove herself. If there’s one thing she can win, it’s this election – even if it means losing her best friend.
So when Jade is voted in as Party Leader ahead of her school’s General Election only to find herself standing against Becky, Jade sees it as a chance to prove herself. If there’s one thing she can win, it’s this election – even if it means losing her best friend.
152 pages, Paperback
First published January 15, 2018
6 people are currently reading
470 people want to read
About the author
Non Pratt
12 books249 followersNon Pratt started her career working on non-fiction activity books at Usborne, before becoming an editor at Catnip Publishing. Her debut novel TROUBLE shortlisted for the YA Book Prize and the Branford Boase Award, with rights sold to the USA, Germany and Brazil. Her second novel, REMIX came out in 2015 and a novella, UNBOXED for Barrington Stoke in 2016. Her third novel with Walker Books, TRUTH OR DARE will come out in 2017.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
February 9, 2018
I won a signed copy of this book in a Twitter giveaway so a massive thanks to the publishers Barrington Stoke for picking me as one of the winners! This book is on the publishing line for reluctant readers or readers who are dyslexic.
Disclaimer- I personally am not dyslexic however, I am on the bloggers mailing list for this publisher and am very happy to review all of the YA books that they publish!
This is the first book I've read by Non Pratt and it certainly won't be my last. It follows two year 11 girls, classmates and best friends Jade and Becky. Things get complicated when it is Becky that seems to come out on top with just about anything and Jade wondering how on earth she's going to cope with that. When a school election is planned, their friendship is put to the test and wondering whether to do the right thing or risk it all for the chance to have a shining moment. This quick read discusses friendships, relationships and coming of age in a fast paced read that I pleasantly enjoyed. I would say that due to some f-bombs and some other minor scenes, this is perfect for readers who are aged 15+. The format was clear, easy to read with an ending that generally made me smile. Very happy that I got a copy and will definitely recommend to all!
Disclaimer- I personally am not dyslexic however, I am on the bloggers mailing list for this publisher and am very happy to review all of the YA books that they publish!
This is the first book I've read by Non Pratt and it certainly won't be my last. It follows two year 11 girls, classmates and best friends Jade and Becky. Things get complicated when it is Becky that seems to come out on top with just about anything and Jade wondering how on earth she's going to cope with that. When a school election is planned, their friendship is put to the test and wondering whether to do the right thing or risk it all for the chance to have a shining moment. This quick read discusses friendships, relationships and coming of age in a fast paced read that I pleasantly enjoyed. I would say that due to some f-bombs and some other minor scenes, this is perfect for readers who are aged 15+. The format was clear, easy to read with an ending that generally made me smile. Very happy that I got a copy and will definitely recommend to all!
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July 20, 2018The motto of this book should be 'comparison is the thief of joy', and it's a lesson that I still have to learn, so thanks 'Second Best Friend' for the reminder!
January 26, 2018
I love reading books by Non Pratt. I've read Truth or Dare, so I jumped at the chance of reading Second Best Friend. I think that a lot of us might see our self in this story. Who doesn't want to be liked? We all did at school. Jade has a kind of perfect best friend. Yes we've all been there and had what we thought was a best friend. Jade wants to dump her boyfriend Rob, and of course Becky, who is Jade's best friend gives Jade full encouragement to split up from Rob. Wait for it, something happens here. And I'm encouraging you all to read Second Best Friend.
February 13, 2018
Let’s get one thing straight: I am absolutely a Non Pratt fanboy, so if this review sounds a little too gushing, that’s because it is. Pratt’s books are a rich, tasty dessert to me: eminently satisfying, far longer-lasting than candy, and sometimes even a little bit good—but not too good—for you. Second Best Friend is no exception. Like
Unboxed
, her previous novella from Barrington Stoke, Second Best Friend is an encapsulated, somewhat brief story about a specific point in time. Whereas Unboxed was about four friends dealing with the loss of a fifth, this story is about friend almost losing another to an envy that might be all in her imagination. It’s real; it’s raw, but it’s also deeply humorous and forgiving.
Protagonist Jade is good, but she feels like everyone compares her to her best friend, Becky, and that she always comes out second. Becky is prettier; Becky is smarter; Becky is more responsible; Becky is basically just better than Jade and always will be. When Jade’s break-up with her boyfriend backfires and triggers a crisis in confidence centred on Becky, Jade throws herself into a school election campaign. She winds up competing with her own best friend (because that always goes well). While dealing with the perhaps-wanted attentions of her campaign manager, Jade mulls over her feelings about Becky. How does one improve one’s sense of self-worth when one only compares oneself to perfection?
Second Best Friend works so well for two reasons. Firstly, Pratt carefully and compellingly builds the case for Jade’s perspective. From dinners with her own family to differences in Instagram likes to teachers picking Becky over Jade for solo parts, we see, from Jade’s POV, the injustice of the situation. And what’s so frustrating for her—and therefore, by extension, us—is that Becky doesn’t mean for any of this to happen. Becky is not the bad guy here; she is not an antagonist we can plot against, undermine, or take down. The bad guy is Jade’s own self-esteem—and that proves to be a much bigger boss fight.
The second reason this book works is because it’s really easy to identify with Jade’s feelings on the matter. They’re a kind of version of imposter syndrome. I don’t necessarily have any one friend whom I’d consider too perfect (no, sorry, not even you, real-life Becky). But I think it’s a very common experience to see other friends excelling in fields you are passionate in, and to worry that you will never measure up. Milieus like Instagram and other social media platforms, where eyeballs and self-worth are measured in likes, only compound this problem. We could try to dismiss this as the particular hang-up of “young people” who are too “obsessed” with their online image, but that ignores the messages we send—particularly to young girls—about how you’re only valuable if people are looking at you.
I also appreciate how Pratt never really pushes the story over the top. Even Jade’s betrayal of one of Becky’s darkest secrets is, really, rather tame. Truth or Dare is predicated upon some pretty heavy guilt regarding someone jumping off a bridge and suffering a traumatic brain injury as a result. In contrast, Jade exposing something Becky did as a young child is embarrassing but not life-altering—and Pratt plays it that way. This is a betrayal not because of how it affects Becky’s social standing but because of the way it alters Becky’s ability to trust, implicitly, her best friend. It’s a deeply personal action and a deeply personal consequence, and I love the way Pratt portrays that against the backdrop of this ultimately unimportant school election.
(As an aside, I discovered some latent PTSD-like flashbacks to my days teaching in England while reading this. The students at this school are way too into this social responsibility class and planning this election. I remember my days of being a form tutor and dreading the SMSC topics we were somehow supposed to cover in the ten minutes we had each morning, while my students just looked at me with an apathy bordering on pity and or disgust. Oof. There were many lovely students I taught and many excellent classes, but I do not miss that particular dimension of teaching in England!)
Without going into spoilers, let me just say that the ending is extremely abrupt. Even physically reading this book and knowing there were only a few pages left, I still kind of did a double-take when I turned the page and realized that I was done. And I love it. Once that shock wore off, I thought it was a perfect way to conclude the story. Because it offers this sliver of hope—for redemption, reconciliation, recapitulation—without collapsing the waveform of our own glorious imaginations as to how, exactly, that might be achieved. It’s like ending the romantic comedy just as the one love interest walks back in the door. You don’t necessarily know how it ends, but you can fill in the blanks yourself.
Also, I read Becky as aromantic- and/or asexual-spectrum. On page 10, Jade mentions, “The truth is that Becky’s not up for it with anyone”. (There are also indications that Becky might be a little touch-averse.) The words aren’t used on page like they were for the character of Seren in Truth or Dare , and it’s never really explored any further than that. This is understandable, given the length of the story, though I do wish that we reach a point where we can throw out words like aromantic and asexual in passing and not have to digress to define them.
For my closing thoughts I want to spend a little time complimenting both Pratt’s writing in general and the construction of this book itself. Barrington Stoke just publishes these lovely little editions. The covers are fantastic (and shiny!) but the paper. Oh wow, the paper is just such high quality. And the typeface! I’m not necessarily a die-hard typography nerd, but I respect it, and the book designers here outdid themselves. Reading this book is an exercise in self-care. And the design only serves to enhance and complement Pratt’s writing, which is deliciously descriptive, evocative, and entertaining. From cute turns of phrase like “a boy so hot he should be measured on the Scoville scale” to descriptions of a teacher dressing like an ASOS ad to supporting characters with defining, but not stereotypical, traits, Second Best Friend might have been a shorter read for me, but it was predictably a great one.
That’s about it. Non Pratt keeps coming up with new and different stories, and as long as that is the case, I will keep trying to come up with new and different thins to say about them. But really all I want to say is that if you haven’t read any of her books yet, you should pick one up. There are several, and even if some of them don’t sound right for you, I’d like to bet at least one will. And above all else, I’m excited that voices like Pratt’s are out there, awaiting young adult readers who might be wondering if everyone experiences feelings of envy, of second-bestism, of impostership if it’s just them. (Spoiler alert: it’s not just you.)
Protagonist Jade is good, but she feels like everyone compares her to her best friend, Becky, and that she always comes out second. Becky is prettier; Becky is smarter; Becky is more responsible; Becky is basically just better than Jade and always will be. When Jade’s break-up with her boyfriend backfires and triggers a crisis in confidence centred on Becky, Jade throws herself into a school election campaign. She winds up competing with her own best friend (because that always goes well). While dealing with the perhaps-wanted attentions of her campaign manager, Jade mulls over her feelings about Becky. How does one improve one’s sense of self-worth when one only compares oneself to perfection?
Second Best Friend works so well for two reasons. Firstly, Pratt carefully and compellingly builds the case for Jade’s perspective. From dinners with her own family to differences in Instagram likes to teachers picking Becky over Jade for solo parts, we see, from Jade’s POV, the injustice of the situation. And what’s so frustrating for her—and therefore, by extension, us—is that Becky doesn’t mean for any of this to happen. Becky is not the bad guy here; she is not an antagonist we can plot against, undermine, or take down. The bad guy is Jade’s own self-esteem—and that proves to be a much bigger boss fight.
The second reason this book works is because it’s really easy to identify with Jade’s feelings on the matter. They’re a kind of version of imposter syndrome. I don’t necessarily have any one friend whom I’d consider too perfect (no, sorry, not even you, real-life Becky). But I think it’s a very common experience to see other friends excelling in fields you are passionate in, and to worry that you will never measure up. Milieus like Instagram and other social media platforms, where eyeballs and self-worth are measured in likes, only compound this problem. We could try to dismiss this as the particular hang-up of “young people” who are too “obsessed” with their online image, but that ignores the messages we send—particularly to young girls—about how you’re only valuable if people are looking at you.
I also appreciate how Pratt never really pushes the story over the top. Even Jade’s betrayal of one of Becky’s darkest secrets is, really, rather tame. Truth or Dare is predicated upon some pretty heavy guilt regarding someone jumping off a bridge and suffering a traumatic brain injury as a result. In contrast, Jade exposing something Becky did as a young child is embarrassing but not life-altering—and Pratt plays it that way. This is a betrayal not because of how it affects Becky’s social standing but because of the way it alters Becky’s ability to trust, implicitly, her best friend. It’s a deeply personal action and a deeply personal consequence, and I love the way Pratt portrays that against the backdrop of this ultimately unimportant school election.
(As an aside, I discovered some latent PTSD-like flashbacks to my days teaching in England while reading this. The students at this school are way too into this social responsibility class and planning this election. I remember my days of being a form tutor and dreading the SMSC topics we were somehow supposed to cover in the ten minutes we had each morning, while my students just looked at me with an apathy bordering on pity and or disgust. Oof. There were many lovely students I taught and many excellent classes, but I do not miss that particular dimension of teaching in England!)
Without going into spoilers, let me just say that the ending is extremely abrupt. Even physically reading this book and knowing there were only a few pages left, I still kind of did a double-take when I turned the page and realized that I was done. And I love it. Once that shock wore off, I thought it was a perfect way to conclude the story. Because it offers this sliver of hope—for redemption, reconciliation, recapitulation—without collapsing the waveform of our own glorious imaginations as to how, exactly, that might be achieved. It’s like ending the romantic comedy just as the one love interest walks back in the door. You don’t necessarily know how it ends, but you can fill in the blanks yourself.
Also, I read Becky as aromantic- and/or asexual-spectrum. On page 10, Jade mentions, “The truth is that Becky’s not up for it with anyone”. (There are also indications that Becky might be a little touch-averse.) The words aren’t used on page like they were for the character of Seren in Truth or Dare , and it’s never really explored any further than that. This is understandable, given the length of the story, though I do wish that we reach a point where we can throw out words like aromantic and asexual in passing and not have to digress to define them.
For my closing thoughts I want to spend a little time complimenting both Pratt’s writing in general and the construction of this book itself. Barrington Stoke just publishes these lovely little editions. The covers are fantastic (and shiny!) but the paper. Oh wow, the paper is just such high quality. And the typeface! I’m not necessarily a die-hard typography nerd, but I respect it, and the book designers here outdid themselves. Reading this book is an exercise in self-care. And the design only serves to enhance and complement Pratt’s writing, which is deliciously descriptive, evocative, and entertaining. From cute turns of phrase like “a boy so hot he should be measured on the Scoville scale” to descriptions of a teacher dressing like an ASOS ad to supporting characters with defining, but not stereotypical, traits, Second Best Friend might have been a shorter read for me, but it was predictably a great one.
That’s about it. Non Pratt keeps coming up with new and different stories, and as long as that is the case, I will keep trying to come up with new and different thins to say about them. But really all I want to say is that if you haven’t read any of her books yet, you should pick one up. There are several, and even if some of them don’t sound right for you, I’d like to bet at least one will. And above all else, I’m excited that voices like Pratt’s are out there, awaiting young adult readers who might be wondering if everyone experiences feelings of envy, of second-bestism, of impostership if it’s just them. (Spoiler alert: it’s not just you.)
February 21, 2018
Second Best Friend is another brilliantly accessible and relatable contemporary story from YA favourite Non Pratt, all about female friendship, rivalry and self-confidence. The novella features Jade and Becky, best friends for years and partners in crime, but the girls' friendship is put to the test when Jade's ex-boyfriend leads Becky to believe that everyone thinks she's the less talented, less pretty, less interesting of the pair. Jade is voted in as Party Leader ahead of the school's General Election – a bold and unexpected move for Jade – and finds herself competing against her best friend, again. But this time, maybe she can actually win rather than come second?
Continue reading this review over on Pretty Books.
Continue reading this review over on Pretty Books.
July 17, 2018
I really enjoyed this book because it was so realistic yet entertains you. I don't personally know the feeling of being shadowed by your best friend but I can say that I did really feel it in this book.
February 22, 2018
This book is just sheer brilliance. It gives a raw and honest look into the sometimes inexplicably complex relationship that you have with a best friend in a way that only Non Pratt could do it.
Jade and Becky have always been best friends. That is until they are both thrust into the limelight with their school General Election (which I thought was a brilliant way to give younger readers an insight into how politics can work, by the way!). This book is all about those moments where we find ourselves comparing ourselves to those closest to us and the damning effect that can have on both of those involved.
Second Best Friend provides an unflinching look into the dynamics of teenage friendship (although I think it is incredibly easy to relate to what Jade goes through in this book even as a 27 year old reader). What starts out as a little niggle in Jade’s mind after a comment made by her ex soon turns into Jade needing to be the best, no matter what that means for her and Becky’s friendship. This story may be a quick one, but Non manages to tackle so many things in so few pages: friendship, self-confidence, jealousy, anxiety to name a few. I also loved the idea that as much as we may think we know someone, even those closest to us have their own secrets and we never know what they could be going through or hiding in their heads.
Second Best Friend is a fast-paced, emotion fuelled and completely realistic novella that I think almost everyone will somehow relate to. We live in a world where we constantly compare ourselves to celebrities and other public figures, but this book shows just how heart breaking that habit can be when we look too close to home.
On a side note, as a teacher (and reader in general) I am always delighted when reading a book published by Barrington Stoke as their books are dyslexia friendly. They use a specific font, off white paper and the line spacing and font size make these books so accessible to audiences who may otherwise find reading to be a very daunting and overwhelming task. Thank you, Barrington Stoke!
Jade and Becky have always been best friends. That is until they are both thrust into the limelight with their school General Election (which I thought was a brilliant way to give younger readers an insight into how politics can work, by the way!). This book is all about those moments where we find ourselves comparing ourselves to those closest to us and the damning effect that can have on both of those involved.
Second Best Friend provides an unflinching look into the dynamics of teenage friendship (although I think it is incredibly easy to relate to what Jade goes through in this book even as a 27 year old reader). What starts out as a little niggle in Jade’s mind after a comment made by her ex soon turns into Jade needing to be the best, no matter what that means for her and Becky’s friendship. This story may be a quick one, but Non manages to tackle so many things in so few pages: friendship, self-confidence, jealousy, anxiety to name a few. I also loved the idea that as much as we may think we know someone, even those closest to us have their own secrets and we never know what they could be going through or hiding in their heads.
Second Best Friend is a fast-paced, emotion fuelled and completely realistic novella that I think almost everyone will somehow relate to. We live in a world where we constantly compare ourselves to celebrities and other public figures, but this book shows just how heart breaking that habit can be when we look too close to home.
On a side note, as a teacher (and reader in general) I am always delighted when reading a book published by Barrington Stoke as their books are dyslexia friendly. They use a specific font, off white paper and the line spacing and font size make these books so accessible to audiences who may otherwise find reading to be a very daunting and overwhelming task. Thank you, Barrington Stoke!
December 14, 2017
This book was like a burst of brilliance; a story I think every young - and older - woman will relate to.
March 10, 2018
In her 2nd novella for Barrington Stoke, Non Pratt tells the story of Jade, who begins to notice how often she`s second best to her best friend Becky after a catty comment from ex Rob. She gets very involved in a new class about politics and becomes determined to finally beat Becky in the school election, no matter the cost. This was a unqiue concept I can`t recall seeing before, and I read this in one sitting as not only was it short and easier to read due to Barrington Stoke`s design modifications for dyslexic or reluctant readers, but also as I was intrigued to see how things would play out. Non`s school scenes felt realistic; more so than many I read, and her dialogue is sharp and superb. A particular favourite in this story was the Fantastic Mr. Fox comment, and I thought Becky`s sister Stef was amazing, and I adpred the humour she added. I`m excited to see what Non`s next novel will be already! 4.5/5
January 26, 2018
A sharp, brilliantly-observed YA story about the insecurities we all have about comparing ourselves to our most beloved friends. Jade feels second-best to her best friend Becky, so goes all out to beat her in the school election. I loved this book, and I love Non's writing style. Bravo! (12+)
*Please note: this review is meant as a recommendation only. Please do not use it in any marketing material, online or in print, without asking permission from me first. Thank you!*
*Please note: this review is meant as a recommendation only. Please do not use it in any marketing material, online or in print, without asking permission from me first. Thank you!*
June 13, 2018
In this book we meet Jade and her best friend Becky. When Jade gets dumped and compared to her best friend we start to see just how insecure she feels as the book develops into a image based plot mixed into school politics.
The books main message is that we shouldn't compare ourselves and there are people out there who will see us for all we are and our amazing selves, we're all different and it's to be celebrated not hated!
The books main message is that we shouldn't compare ourselves and there are people out there who will see us for all we are and our amazing selves, we're all different and it's to be celebrated not hated!
January 31, 2020
Une petite histoire sympathique, facile et rapide à lire qui nous confronte à la jalousie et la colère que l’on peut parfois ressentir envers nos meilleures amies ou nos frères et sœurs car tout nous pousse à nous comparer et nous évaluer par rapport à eux.
December 18, 2017
A great read about friendship, rivalry, insecurities and the pressure society places on girls to compete against one another.
February 8, 2018
A brief reminder of the importance of friendship, and the fact that you shouldn't base your self-worth on the opinions of others.
If you loved Non Pratt's Unboxed, you'll probably love Second Best Friend even more! The only thing that could have improved it would have been a better ending - the way it finishes is startlingly abrupt, and it would have been nice to see the story finished a little more neatly.
EDIT 08/02/18:
I wasn't planning on writing a full-length review for Second Best Friend, because it's only 137 pages long. However, I read it in one sitting on Monday and I've been unable to stop thinking about it since.
Non Pratt squeezes a ridiculous amount of content into this book. Even though it's short, it's extremely rereadable (that's why I managed to read it twice in the space of a week: that's not something I'd be able to do if it was an average story!).
I have a few favourite aspects of Second Best Friend.
Of course, the focus on friendship is a given, but family are also a huge part of the story. Jade has some problems with her father but has a cool step-mum - not something you often encounter in YA - while the fact that Becky has two mums is slipped into the story with ease. It's great to see a range of family dynamics, rather than the typical nuclear family setup.
It's also an extremely realistic story. Who hasn't felt jealous of a close friend? I know I have, but I also know that it's important not to blame them for your own insecurities. Combine the simple drama with the easy banter between classmates and the casual use of swearing, and Second Best Friend throws you back into your secondary school days.
Barrington Stoke books are designed to be dyslexia-friendly and perfect for reluctant readers. I think it's wonderful that a story like this has been released by them: although it's easy to read it's still compelling, and there isn't a dull moment. I sincerely hope that Pratt works with Barrington Stoke again in the future, because teenage readers who struggle deserve to have the opportunity to read books like these.
This review was originally posted on The Bumbling Blogger.
If you loved Non Pratt's Unboxed, you'll probably love Second Best Friend even more! The only thing that could have improved it would have been a better ending - the way it finishes is startlingly abrupt, and it would have been nice to see the story finished a little more neatly.
EDIT 08/02/18:
I wasn't planning on writing a full-length review for Second Best Friend, because it's only 137 pages long. However, I read it in one sitting on Monday and I've been unable to stop thinking about it since.
Non Pratt squeezes a ridiculous amount of content into this book. Even though it's short, it's extremely rereadable (that's why I managed to read it twice in the space of a week: that's not something I'd be able to do if it was an average story!).
I have a few favourite aspects of Second Best Friend.
Of course, the focus on friendship is a given, but family are also a huge part of the story. Jade has some problems with her father but has a cool step-mum - not something you often encounter in YA - while the fact that Becky has two mums is slipped into the story with ease. It's great to see a range of family dynamics, rather than the typical nuclear family setup.
It's also an extremely realistic story. Who hasn't felt jealous of a close friend? I know I have, but I also know that it's important not to blame them for your own insecurities. Combine the simple drama with the easy banter between classmates and the casual use of swearing, and Second Best Friend throws you back into your secondary school days.
Barrington Stoke books are designed to be dyslexia-friendly and perfect for reluctant readers. I think it's wonderful that a story like this has been released by them: although it's easy to read it's still compelling, and there isn't a dull moment. I sincerely hope that Pratt works with Barrington Stoke again in the future, because teenage readers who struggle deserve to have the opportunity to read books like these.
This review was originally posted on The Bumbling Blogger.
January 22, 2018
Non Pratt continuously brings out books with spookily relatable characters. It’s people you either have in your life or you relate to on a personal level. With Second Best Friend I really felt like I understood Jade and I think there will be many other readers like me. Comparing yourself to others is almost automatic and when you compare yourself to your best friend(s) it’s tough not to let things get to you.
I really enjoyed reading Second Best Friend. As a novella it’s brilliantly executed, balancing character development and storytelling. Non Pratt never lets me down with her books.
I really enjoyed reading Second Best Friend. As a novella it’s brilliantly executed, balancing character development and storytelling. Non Pratt never lets me down with her books.
February 9, 2018
I love Non Pratt, so much so that a few weeks ago I wrote a short post about just how much I love her books. Pratt writes the most wonderful characters, teenagers who feel real with relatable problems.
I think Second Best Friend is her most honest book so far. Jade and Becky are best friends, matching with blonde hair and interchangeable wardrobes. But when the boy Jade breaks up with tells her he only pursued her because Becky turned him down, Jade begins to suffer an inferiority complex. Why does she always come second to Becky?
When a new lesson proposes a school election, Jade sees it as the perfect opportunity to step out of Becky's shadow and win something for herself.
This is such a heart-wrenching book. Jade's behaviour is so oftentimes cruel or thoughtless, but her pain is so believable and her anxiety completely understandable. I found myself rooting for Jade even when she treats Becky terribly.
This is a brilliant, intense novella from one of the greatest writers from the UK young adult scene, and I eagerly await the next book, which will be Floored, a book written by seven different UK YA authors.
Second Best Friend is published by Barrington Stoke, who publish super-readable fiction -- short, intense stories in accessible fonts and paper that make reading easier for those who struggle. Their backlist is full of amazing writers -- Malorie Blackman, David Almond, Sita Brachmari. I strongly recommend you go check out their books!
What to read next:
Unboxed by Non Pratt
Girl Out of Water by Nat Luurtesma
Solitaire by Alice Oseman
I think Second Best Friend is her most honest book so far. Jade and Becky are best friends, matching with blonde hair and interchangeable wardrobes. But when the boy Jade breaks up with tells her he only pursued her because Becky turned him down, Jade begins to suffer an inferiority complex. Why does she always come second to Becky?
When a new lesson proposes a school election, Jade sees it as the perfect opportunity to step out of Becky's shadow and win something for herself.
This is such a heart-wrenching book. Jade's behaviour is so oftentimes cruel or thoughtless, but her pain is so believable and her anxiety completely understandable. I found myself rooting for Jade even when she treats Becky terribly.
This is a brilliant, intense novella from one of the greatest writers from the UK young adult scene, and I eagerly await the next book, which will be Floored, a book written by seven different UK YA authors.
Second Best Friend is published by Barrington Stoke, who publish super-readable fiction -- short, intense stories in accessible fonts and paper that make reading easier for those who struggle. Their backlist is full of amazing writers -- Malorie Blackman, David Almond, Sita Brachmari. I strongly recommend you go check out their books!
What to read next:
Unboxed by Non Pratt
Girl Out of Water by Nat Luurtesma
Solitaire by Alice Oseman
January 17, 2018
Fabulously relatable. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Read
April 19, 2019I am once again astounded by how much can go into a short book 💜
January 24, 2018
I love these books. They’re like a brilliant hug from a friend. Short, honest, brilliant. Non is an actual angel and her friendships are always the best.
June 4, 2018
Short stories should be more like this. Second Best Friend discribes a feeling probably every girl experienced once in her life. An easy nice read for a nice break between heavier books.
January 24, 2020
Short but heartfelt and attention holding.
June 18, 2020
2,5 ⭐️ I think this book wasn’t really for me. I didn’t like the MC and her choices. But younger teens probably will like it more. I wasn’t in the right target group for this one I guess.
September 3, 2021
I had way too high hopes for this coming from unboxed right before it. It was cringey and unnatural in every way. I loved unboxed and feel disapointed that this wasn’t as good as I hoped, it had great potential.
April 4, 2018
Second Best Friend was one of the 2018 releases that I absolutely couldn't wait for. I have been a huge Non Pratt fan ever since reading her debut, Trouble, and since then I seriously cannot get enough of her books. I have read and loved all of them and Second Best Friend was no exception. Non once again writes about an incredible important and relevant issue in teens and I feel like this is the more raw and real story so far.
Jade and Becky have been best friends forever. But Jade is finding herself repeatedly jealous of Becky and as she starts comparing herself to her best friend she finds herself falling onto a path and she can't get off. She needs to prove herself better than Becky on at least one thing... but the farther Jade goes the more likely it is looking that she will lose her best friend forever.
Once again Non is tackling a very important issue that you see far too often in teenagers. Them comparing themselves to each other, especially on social media which results in them developing mental health issues and issues with their self-esteem and view of themselves. Non has done a fantastic job of showing just how dangerous this behaviour can be and she has done it in a totally unputdownable story.
I loved reading about Jade and Becky and even as Jade began spiralling farther and farther down this awful path I just couldn't put it down. Second Best Friend is a fantastic short novella and I loved every second of it. You don't need a full-length novel to associate and love Non's story and characters. I was so invested in this story and couldn't put it down.
The one thing that fell down for me was I really wanted to read more. I felt like the ending was a littel abrupt. Non has spun this incredible tale and when it was over I just wanted to know what happened next to these characters. What happened to Jade? Did she and Nick end up working things out? I just feel like the ending left much to be desires and I have so many questions. I really wish it was longer, or that Non would write a follow-up.
Second Best Friend is an amazing realistic short story that anyone will enjoy. If you're looking for an amazing, addictive read that won't take you too long to read then I highly recommend you pick up Second Best Friend.
Jade and Becky have been best friends forever. But Jade is finding herself repeatedly jealous of Becky and as she starts comparing herself to her best friend she finds herself falling onto a path and she can't get off. She needs to prove herself better than Becky on at least one thing... but the farther Jade goes the more likely it is looking that she will lose her best friend forever.
Once again Non is tackling a very important issue that you see far too often in teenagers. Them comparing themselves to each other, especially on social media which results in them developing mental health issues and issues with their self-esteem and view of themselves. Non has done a fantastic job of showing just how dangerous this behaviour can be and she has done it in a totally unputdownable story.
I loved reading about Jade and Becky and even as Jade began spiralling farther and farther down this awful path I just couldn't put it down. Second Best Friend is a fantastic short novella and I loved every second of it. You don't need a full-length novel to associate and love Non's story and characters. I was so invested in this story and couldn't put it down.
The one thing that fell down for me was I really wanted to read more. I felt like the ending was a littel abrupt. Non has spun this incredible tale and when it was over I just wanted to know what happened next to these characters. What happened to Jade? Did she and Nick end up working things out? I just feel like the ending left much to be desires and I have so many questions. I really wish it was longer, or that Non would write a follow-up.
Second Best Friend is an amazing realistic short story that anyone will enjoy. If you're looking for an amazing, addictive read that won't take you too long to read then I highly recommend you pick up Second Best Friend.
February 4, 2018
First read (5th December 2017): 5★
A wonderful short story about friendships, politics and rivalry. Jade is determined to win the school election following a comment from her ex, even if it means losing her best friend in the process.
Jade reminded me a lot of myself when I was at school, and her character was so wonderfully written. Although it’s only a short story there was so much packed into it, but it was still so believable. I’ve read short stories before that haven’t got the pace right at all so have seemed quite far-fetched, but Second Best Friend was perfect for that.
Perfectly paced and utterly believable, with a main character that will resonate with a lot of readers.
- - -
Second read (4th February 2018): 5★
• Friendships and politics
• Fast paced but tells the story perfectly
• A reflection of the anxiety all teenagers feel
• Shows the importance of friendships above all else
• Another perfectly captured teenage voice
A wonderful short story about friendships, politics and rivalry. Jade is determined to win the school election following a comment from her ex, even if it means losing her best friend in the process.
Jade reminded me a lot of myself when I was at school, and her character was so wonderfully written. Although it’s only a short story there was so much packed into it, but it was still so believable. I’ve read short stories before that haven’t got the pace right at all so have seemed quite far-fetched, but Second Best Friend was perfect for that.
Perfectly paced and utterly believable, with a main character that will resonate with a lot of readers.
- - -
Second read (4th February 2018): 5★
• Friendships and politics
• Fast paced but tells the story perfectly
• A reflection of the anxiety all teenagers feel
• Shows the importance of friendships above all else
• Another perfectly captured teenage voice
July 25, 2020
Okay, soo another triumph here Non.
The book explored topics of insecurity and jealousy really, really well!
Non Pratt's super simple, clever writing style, blows me away every time.
I have been Jade, I am Jade. Jealous of my best friend, the person across the street. A fellow reviewer with more views. All these things affect us and Non, has written them in a very down to earth, honest way.
The way this book has been published in dyslexia-friendly form is beyond awesome. I didn’t notice till I had flown through it. Got to the end and low and behould, yellow paper to stop the words moving. Thank you to the publishers for that jem.
The book explored topics of insecurity and jealousy really, really well!
Non Pratt's super simple, clever writing style, blows me away every time.
I have been Jade, I am Jade. Jealous of my best friend, the person across the street. A fellow reviewer with more views. All these things affect us and Non, has written them in a very down to earth, honest way.
The way this book has been published in dyslexia-friendly form is beyond awesome. I didn’t notice till I had flown through it. Got to the end and low and behould, yellow paper to stop the words moving. Thank you to the publishers for that jem.
July 14, 2018
3.5 stars
Before this book got published, I didn't realise that it was going to be a children's book rather than a shorter YA. Yes, there are swear words but the way the students act really reveals their age (I doubt they're 13 but still) and also if you calculate their age by their year (they're year 9s, I think).
At the start of the novel, Jade plans to dump a super popular and apparently 'super-hot' boy name Rob because of how little of a connection she has with him. To save face, Rob spills the truth.
He also let her know that he only pursued her because Becky didn't want to date him. And as expected, Jade knows the true reason why.
I read a review that stated this could be the possibility of her being Asexual but I guess if it were, it could have been explained better. From my perspective she seems more Aromantic but who knows.
After this, Jade tries super hard to outshine Becky. She even ended up dying her hair red. She eventually spoke to Becky's rebellious twin sister about her insecurities but Becky's twin Stef informed her that was a bunch of horseradish.
All this is true because Jade is an extrovert while Becky's both introverted and shy. Though Jade is technically the more 'interesting' character, I find myself drawn to Becky because of how relatable she is - bit of a goody two shoes and a little conservative - especially when it comes to dating.
Jade is bubbly and friendly but I generally tend to be weary of people like her. Not because she's bubbly but because people with her 'party hard' personality tend to have a tendency to be fake and two faced.
One thing I really appreciate is how Stef is so loyal to her twin sister. Though Stef is bolder, more intimidating and has more of a sailor's mouth than Becky, she still cares about her. Though she is and probably always will be compared to her, she remains loyal to her. It seems that Becky doesn't fully reciprocate those feelings towards her sister because she's a troublemaker but I believe she knows she is cared for.
Before this book got published, I didn't realise that it was going to be a children's book rather than a shorter YA. Yes, there are swear words but the way the students act really reveals their age (I doubt they're 13 but still) and also if you calculate their age by their year (they're year 9s, I think).
At the start of the novel, Jade plans to dump a super popular and apparently 'super-hot' boy name Rob because of how little of a connection she has with him. To save face, Rob spills the truth.
"Everyone knows Becky's the hot one." Rob reaches up to pat my cheek and I slap his hand away. He laughs, a nasty hiss through his teeth.
"Everyone except you, Jade."
He also let her know that he only pursued her because Becky didn't want to date him. And as expected, Jade knows the true reason why.
The truth is that Becky's not up for it with anyone, but I only know that because she's my best mate.
I read a review that stated this could be the possibility of her being Asexual but I guess if it were, it could have been explained better. From my perspective she seems more Aromantic but who knows.
After this, Jade tries super hard to outshine Becky. She even ended up dying her hair red. She eventually spoke to Becky's rebellious twin sister about her insecurities but Becky's twin Stef informed her that was a bunch of horseradish.
"You think everyone sees Becky the same way you see her, Jade, but they don't. They never have. Not even Becky. She has to work to get people to like her in a way that you don't. Remember that."
All this is true because Jade is an extrovert while Becky's both introverted and shy. Though Jade is technically the more 'interesting' character, I find myself drawn to Becky because of how relatable she is - bit of a goody two shoes and a little conservative - especially when it comes to dating.
Jade is bubbly and friendly but I generally tend to be weary of people like her. Not because she's bubbly but because people with her 'party hard' personality tend to have a tendency to be fake and two faced.
One thing I really appreciate is how Stef is so loyal to her twin sister. Though Stef is bolder, more intimidating and has more of a sailor's mouth than Becky, she still cares about her. Though she is and probably always will be compared to her, she remains loyal to her. It seems that Becky doesn't fully reciprocate those feelings towards her sister because she's a troublemaker but I believe she knows she is cared for.
January 18, 2020
I adored this book. I really enjoyed the way it was styled as it is set out for people who don't usually read and I've already passed it on to a friend who isn't a big reader. It was fun but also very heartwarming with a hint of drama and about female friendship and how one little thing can set of a chain of motions that shows the ups and downs of friendship especially, in high school.
Jade and Becky are the best of friends. They spend a lot of time together, go out together, share secrets, share clothes, do all the things best friends do. When Jade breaks up with a boy she was seeing he tells her something spiteful that makes her second guess everything and start to look at her friendship and the way people treat her when she's with Becky with a magnifying glass. She feels like she is always getting compared to Becky, making her second best. She just wants to succeed at one thing. To prove something for herself. With a school election and a cute campaign manger, can Jade make herself shine and be number 1? Or will she push herself too far and push Becky away?
This book is short but it is filled with so much emotion. I totally relate with these characters. We've all had times where we've felt inadequate, and it's easy to get mixed up in it all. It is sometimes easy to let mean comments get to you and sometimes it means hurting people in the process.
This is a book about female friendship and how mean comments can change how you feel towards someone and how, you realise after awhile that things are different but, you can do what you can to get that back. Friendship is a strong thing to have, especially when you're a teen, it's easy to get mixed up and confused about things and this book shows that. It is such a good book and also very important to talk about the ups and downs of friendships.
A short story but it comes with a strong impact!
Jade and Becky are the best of friends. They spend a lot of time together, go out together, share secrets, share clothes, do all the things best friends do. When Jade breaks up with a boy she was seeing he tells her something spiteful that makes her second guess everything and start to look at her friendship and the way people treat her when she's with Becky with a magnifying glass. She feels like she is always getting compared to Becky, making her second best. She just wants to succeed at one thing. To prove something for herself. With a school election and a cute campaign manger, can Jade make herself shine and be number 1? Or will she push herself too far and push Becky away?
This book is short but it is filled with so much emotion. I totally relate with these characters. We've all had times where we've felt inadequate, and it's easy to get mixed up in it all. It is sometimes easy to let mean comments get to you and sometimes it means hurting people in the process.
This is a book about female friendship and how mean comments can change how you feel towards someone and how, you realise after awhile that things are different but, you can do what you can to get that back. Friendship is a strong thing to have, especially when you're a teen, it's easy to get mixed up and confused about things and this book shows that. It is such a good book and also very important to talk about the ups and downs of friendships.
A short story but it comes with a strong impact!
September 9, 2018
Non Pratt is one of my go-to authors. Ever since I read Trouble I have been hooked on her writing which makes it rather strange that it took me so long to read Second Best Friend. This is her second dyslexia friendly text released through Barrington Stoke and I must say, Non Pratt does not patronise her readers.
Second Best Friend is the story of Jade and Becky – best friends but political enemies in an upcoming class project. However, the seemingly perfect Becky is beginning to push Jade’s buttons – through no fault of her own, I might add – but jealousy and a mild inferiority complex turns Jade into the worst version of herself. Through her manipulation she realises that the grass isn’t always greener and most people do not have all of their ducks in a row.
I really loved this story. It displayed how toxic even some of the best friendships can become when outside influences start rubber-necking. Non Pratt also focuses on the morals of teenagers without being condescending – she knows that teens are going to do questionable things but rather than tell them off she shows them the consequences of their actions along with recognising how difficult it is to grow up in a social media age.
What I really love about Non Pratt’s Barrington Stoke releases is that she still writes for a mature audience. I work in a school and in particular with weaker readers and some of the stories available to them are – for want of a better word – boring. They don’t speak to a modern teenager. Non Pratt has her finger firmly on the pulse of the young adult genre and Second Best Friend is a clear example of this.
Second Best Friend by Non Pratt is available now.
Second Best Friend is the story of Jade and Becky – best friends but political enemies in an upcoming class project. However, the seemingly perfect Becky is beginning to push Jade’s buttons – through no fault of her own, I might add – but jealousy and a mild inferiority complex turns Jade into the worst version of herself. Through her manipulation she realises that the grass isn’t always greener and most people do not have all of their ducks in a row.
I really loved this story. It displayed how toxic even some of the best friendships can become when outside influences start rubber-necking. Non Pratt also focuses on the morals of teenagers without being condescending – she knows that teens are going to do questionable things but rather than tell them off she shows them the consequences of their actions along with recognising how difficult it is to grow up in a social media age.
What I really love about Non Pratt’s Barrington Stoke releases is that she still writes for a mature audience. I work in a school and in particular with weaker readers and some of the stories available to them are – for want of a better word – boring. They don’t speak to a modern teenager. Non Pratt has her finger firmly on the pulse of the young adult genre and Second Best Friend is a clear example of this.
Second Best Friend by Non Pratt is available now.
April 16, 2019
This was a nice little read. Most Barrington Stokes I read are high action with violence or huge life changing events woven throughout. This one was very different in pace.
There was no crazy madness or extreme violence but it hooked you in as its rather relatable. Jade notices that her best friend Becky is amazing at everything and she is not as good. The constant comparison starts to drive a wedge between them too until Jade feels forced to come out on top no matter what. I think most people have had a friend at school they are always in competition with (even if they are not aware) so the plot is easy to grasp and relate to.
The great thing about this little story is it teaches readers a lesson to not compare yourself to others as ultimately it can ruin something special but also most of the time those people you compare yourself too aren’t perfect.
Main issue with the book - not lot happened. Characters were inviting but lacked depth (but thats prob due to word restrictions). As the plot is school orientated it never takes you anywhere exciting or pulls you out of your comfort zone.
This novel is like a Cat Clarke book reduced into a lovely little read. Its not high action but if you like friendship and relationship stories with a good message this one will do the trick.
There was no crazy madness or extreme violence but it hooked you in as its rather relatable. Jade notices that her best friend Becky is amazing at everything and she is not as good. The constant comparison starts to drive a wedge between them too until Jade feels forced to come out on top no matter what. I think most people have had a friend at school they are always in competition with (even if they are not aware) so the plot is easy to grasp and relate to.
The great thing about this little story is it teaches readers a lesson to not compare yourself to others as ultimately it can ruin something special but also most of the time those people you compare yourself too aren’t perfect.
Main issue with the book - not lot happened. Characters were inviting but lacked depth (but thats prob due to word restrictions). As the plot is school orientated it never takes you anywhere exciting or pulls you out of your comfort zone.
This novel is like a Cat Clarke book reduced into a lovely little read. Its not high action but if you like friendship and relationship stories with a good message this one will do the trick.
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